תהלים, פרק י׳, פסוק ג׳

The ultimate arrogance of wrongdoers is reached when they use their material success, and even religious language, to justify their corrupt actions. Rather than allowing abundance to inspire humility, they use it as a foundation for pride, hypocrisy, and a complete disregard for Divine providence. The wrongdoer constantly praises himself for getting exactly what he wants without any interference [רש״י, מצודת דוד, רד״ק]. He views his achievements as the direct result of his own personal power and strength alone [מאירי]. While most people find that their desires far exceed their ability to fulfill them, the corrupt individual boasts that his wealth and success have actually surpassed his original ambitions [מלבי״ם].

This arrogance creates a sharp, disturbing contrast between outward expressions of blessing and the actual desecration of God. A thief or extortionist might praise his own violent methods, living in a state of deep complacency, convinced that he will always remain safe and untouched by harm [רש״י, מצודת דוד]. This attitude is a direct insult to God, effectively claiming that He is completely powerless to save the oppressed [רד״ק, מאירי]. The insult also takes the form of religious hypocrisy. A person might steal wheat, bake it into bread, and then offer a religious blessing over the food. Offering a blessing over a stolen item or a sinful act is not an expression of gratitude; it is an insult that deeply angers God [תורה תמימה, אלשיך, חומת אנך]. Even if the wrongdoer puts on a public display of serving God and giving thanks for his abundance, his inner life is completely empty of true faith [ביאור שטיינזלץ].

The responsibility for this disrespect does not fall on the wrongdoer alone, but also on the surrounding society. The insult to God is shared by anyone who envies the success of a corrupt person and chooses to praise him [אבן עזרא, מלבי״ם]. Honoring someone who profits from theft is a direct offense against God. This extends to the justice system as well. When people bypass the demands of honest justice in favor of a clever, manipulative compromise, and then praise that outcome, they are actively disrespecting God's truth [תורה תמימה].